Job Interviews for Teaching Jobs

Make sure you are prepared for the interview process well in advance. While each interview is unique, there are some typical elements to a teaching interview. Most schools have several rounds of interviews.

Some districts may even have an online or phone screening interview.
Make sure to complete either of these types in a quiet setting with a reliable connection. A first interview with the school principal followed by a second interview with additional professionals is another common method. Also, do not hesitate to ask beforehand if the interview will follow a specific format and who will be attending.

Carefully research the school before the interview. Read the school’s website, search recent local news, and talk to community members and teachers. Use your awareness of the school’s accomplishments and needs to answer the interview questions.

Before leaving for an interview, make sure you know how to get to the school. If possible, complete a practice drive. Make sure to leave extra time for any possible delays like traffic jams or trains. An appropriate early arrival helps make a good impression.

You will make an impression as soon as you enter the school. Invest in a professional outfit. Dark colors are typically recommended. Men should wear a classic suit and tie with women choosing a professional dress or pant suit. Keep accessories minimal and make sure your hair is professionally arranged. Arrive prepared with a copy of your resume for each person at the interview. Also consider having copies of your letters of recommendation to leave behind.

Practice answering possible interview questions! Be prepared to answer questions about your background, lessons, classroom management, professional collaboration, parent communications, and technology integration. Search online for lists of possible questions. In addition to great content, you should also practice using positive body language. Strong eye contact, a confident smile, and a good hand shake are important too.

Recruit a friend or family member to ask you potential questions. Practice providing specific answers and not general responses. Also, see if your college’s career development center offers a mock interview experience. If you have a good relationship with an administrator at your student teaching location or another school, request a practice interview. The feedback of a professional is extremely beneficial.

Develop some questions of your own to ask during the interview also. You have certain desires for your teaching position. While it is difficult to find a perfect position, you want to make sure the school is a good match for you too. Questions about a school’s education philosophy, collaboration opportunities, and extra-curricular activities are examples that show your desire to learn more about the school. Consider waiting on questions about salary and benefits until at least a second interview.

After the interview, send a professional thank you letter to each participant of the interview. Thank them for the opportunity, provide any additional information you feel is needed, and express your strong desire for the position.

Consult the following resources for additional help to prepare you for interviews.